Common Permit Needs in Heavy Haul Trucking

There are several areas of the construction world where permits may be required as part of local, state or even federal law, and one of the most consistent examples here across the country is heavy haul trucking. Depending on the loads, equipment and weight being hauled, there may be a few different permits that have to be acquired to ensure full compliance and safety.

At Redi, as one of the top industrial construction companies across Wyoming, Colorado and Nevada, we proudly offer numerous services like heavy haul trucking, scaffolding rentals, facility maintenance and more. We regularly assist clients with basic permitting needs and other regulations, including for projects where trucking is involved. Here are some of the common permits or regulations that you might come across within this realm, plus how to handle them and some other basic tips.

Special Equipment Transport Permits

Especially within large-scale industrial construction jobs where heavy equipment must be moved from one location to another, special equipment transport permits are often required. These cover the hauling of items like cranes, concrete pumps, oversized vehicles and others that require additional clearance, safety measures or other considerations.

In most cases, these permits will need to be acquired prior to beginning any work. They’re available through state departments of transportation or other local authorities – at Redi, we can help you navigate the process and ensure all permits are in place before beginning work.

Wide Load Permits

For larger loads that exceed typical size limits on roads and highways, wide load permits may be required. These cover things like excavators or other heavy-duty machinery that cannot fit within standard lane sizes.

In some cases, route surveys or other prep work may be required before a wide load permit is given. Note that some states and municipalities will have different regulations here, so you’ll want to check in with local authorities for specifics.

Weight Permits

In cases where loads being hauled exceed typical weight limits on roads and highways, special weight permits may be needed as well. In most cases, these will be needed when heavy equipment is being hauled, especially if it exceeds standard weight limits for commercial trucks.

Different locales and states have varying regulations here, so you’ll want to check in before hauling heavy equipment. In most cases, these permits are available through state transportation departments or other local authorities.

Tip and Lift Permits

In some cases, loads that extend above the height of standard vehicles may require tip and lift permits. These account for the need to lift or tip items over any obstacles like bridges or overpasses while still remaining safe and within regulations.

Much like several of the other permit types we’ve discussed, tip and lift permits are available through most state transportation departments or local authorities. Redi is happy to assist you with any needs in this area as well as part of our heavy haul trucking services.

Route-Specific Permits

If routes will include travel through state or local roads that are not designed for large commercial vehicles, you may need to acquire route-specific permits. These allow for temporary use of these roads during your project.

Most state transportation departments will offer such permits, and they’re often available online so long as you know the specific routes in question. We’ll help you acquire any needed route-specific permits before beginning our work.

Other General Tips

Here are some other general tips on ensuring you’re in compliance with any permits or other regulation requirements for heavy haul trucking:

• Strict safety requirements: Heavy haul trucking, for good reason, involves many safety considerations. Be sure all drivers and operators are licensed and trained in all necessary areas.
• Communication protocols: Any time a large load is being hauled on roads or highways, communication with other vehicles becomes essential. We’ll help set up proper communication channels to minimize risks here.
• Review laws closely: Finally, be sure to review the specific laws and regulations in your area closely. These may vary from one place to another, so be diligent in this area.

Risks of Non-Compliance

There are several major risks associated with failing to comply with heavy haul trucking permits and regulations:

• Fines or penalties: If you’re caught violating permit requirements, the fines can be steep. This is especially true if there are multiple violations involved.
• Project delays: Permitting processes can take time, but they’re necessary for safety and compliance reasons. Failure to secure proper permits may delay your project significantly.
• Safety risks: Finally, hauling heavy equipment without proper permits and planning in place puts you and others at serious risk.

Don’t take this chance – work with Redi for all your heavy haul trucking needs. We’re here to provide these and numerous other industrial construction solutions across Colorado, Wyoming and Nevada; simply contact us at your convenience.